Car washes for three family members killed in West San Jose fire

SAN JOSE -- Car washes are planned over the weekend to help a San Jose family bury three relatives who died in a tragic two-alarm fire during Christmas week at a West San Jose apartment complex.

The fire on Dec. 29 claimed the lives of Bulmaro Maldonado, a landscaper at a local golf course; his wife, Mariana Pulido Maldonado, who worked as a baby sitter and house cleaner.

Their 4-year-old granddaughter, Kyra, also perished in the blaze. Her father, Jose Chavez, said her funeral costs has been covered.

About 20 police officers and 53 firefighters responded to the blaze, which also forced 56 residents from their apartments on Bridgeport Court. San Jose fire officials and the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner continue to work on the causes of the fire and deaths. No funeral dates have been set. According to their adult children, the Maldonados wished to be buried in their native state of Michoacan, Mexico.

The car washes will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at Agave Restaurant, 2270 Monterey Rd., San Jose 95112. Donations in any amount are requested.

The family has also set up a "Maldonado/Pulido" burial fund at local Wells Fargo Bank branches, with this account number: 6378547290.